1.   By playing down racism, Loury makes it possible for blacks to feel a part of their country.

2.   He was able to play down his Vichy activities, and his questionable wartime record never proved a serious handicap in politics.

3.   That was just what Shelley was thinking, but she tried to play down her excitement.

4.   But I think they, they probably play it down a bit these days.

5.   Although he acknowledges some hitters tell him he looks eight feet tall on the mound, Johnson tries to play down his image.

6.   American policymakers played down any idea of a rift or confrontation with Europe, saying there were many ideas that deserved to be considered.

7.   Although some observers believe there is a growing division between haves and have-nots in the league, NFL officials play down the increasing anarchy.

8.   Alvarez, who is now a consultant to antinuclear groups, said the department was wrong in playing down his charges but right in calling him an antagonist.

9.   Alvarez, who is now a consultant to anti-nuclear groups, said the department was wrong in playing down his charges but right in calling him an antagonist.

10.   Among the possibilities is playing down their support for gun control.